Question:
Would like opinion on towing capacity for subject car using Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch - 24656. I have aluminium 15foot boat with 30 hp outboard- total weight around 1000 lbs loaded. Tongue wieght can be balanced by position of boat on trailer from 0-100. Towing of flat ground in Florida. Are air springs needed or desirable? Do they have to be deflated every time the trailer is not in use? Thanks.
asked by: Dan D
Expert Reply:
The capacities of the Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch # 24656 that you referenced are 2,000 lbs gross trailer weight and 200 lbs tongue weight. That means your hitch can handle the weight of your setup, but you should still check the owners manual of your 2004 Chevy Malibu to see what Chevy recommends as towing capacities.
You would want the max amount of tongue weight as possible when loading the boat on the trailer. If you do not have the weight of the trailer loaded as far forward as possible you will most likely end up with sway problems.
While air springs are not required for your situation they would help level out your vehicle when it is loaded which would provide you with better handling and braking characteristics when you are pulling your trailer. When not in use you would not want to completely deflate the air bags as this will damage them in the long run. You want to leave a little bit of air pressure in them to prevent them from getting pinched and damaged.
I attached installation instructions for the # AL60776 for you to check out also.
expert reply by: Jameson C
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Air Lift AirLift 1000 Air Helper Springs for Coil Springs - Rear
Product Summary:
Rear Axle Suspension
Suspension Enhancement Kit
1000 lbs
Product Specs:
Air Springs
Polyurethane Springs
Instructions for AL60776
